State Representative Jim Buchy
County Fairs, a Place for Everyone

It has been great to share the fun-filled experiences with all of you as I attended each of the four county fairs in the district. From the first fair in Shelby County, which started July 21st, to the last fair in Darke County ending on August 24th, trips to the fairs have been made for over a month now and I enjoyed them to the fullest. It was nice to see my family, friends and constituents back home that honestly make the biggest difference in my life.

When you attend your local county fair you have the opportunity to catch up with old friends and learn about products from local friends in addition to enjoying high quality entertainment. The fairs provide an opportunity for me to connect with local residents and distribute a questionnaire. That direct interaction with constituents allows me to get a pulse on the concerns of our communities.

One of the most impressive things at the fairs includes the many showcases from art to agriculture being supported by local businesses and contributors that help make the fairs happen. I am continually amazed by the fine work of the 4-H and FFA youth. We must continue to support the fine efforts of these young people.

This year, I compiled a list of my top five fair moments of 2013, in no particular order.

• At the Shelby County Fair—The ribeye sandwich from the cattlemen was the top fair food for the season.

• At the Auglaize County Fair—I have been to a lot of Jr. Fair Sales, but the support from local businesses for these 4-H and FFA projects was unmatched.

• At the Mercer County Fair—The report from the 4-H program was, no drama in the barns.

• At the Darke County Fair—Florida Georgia Line, Montgomery Gentry Concert sells out, welcoming 4,492 fair goers to support the local junior fair program and economy.

• Brooke Egbert brings home the fourth straight Grand Champion Steer at the Ohio State Fair to Auglaize County. This year Brooke showing Bullet took home the top prize.

The things that make these fairs so special are the people, the businesses and even more importantly, the young people. Allowing them to freely showcase their award-winning crops, produce, livestock and crafts is an entire lesson itself since it allows them to learn the fundamental values of business, communication and gets them on the fast-track of responsibility. It all gives them something to look forward to and a chance to get their name out there in the world.

I encourage everyone to stop by and visit their county fairs because they are a great place to gather together and show support for our local communities. The shows are great, the exhibits are interesting and the food is delicious. Yet more importantly, the fine people are what make it all happen.

Please inform me of your opinions on current topics by completing a survey at tinyurl.com/buchysept. Thank you for staying in touch with me. Your feedback helps guide the legislative priorities and is appreciated.